Matthew is a celebrated fiddler, multi-instrumentalist, and music educator based in Boise, Idaho. He has won numerous prestigious titles in the fiddling world, including being a three-time Grand Masters Fiddle Champion in Nashville, a two-time Grand National Fiddle Champion in Weiser, Idaho, and a World Fiddle Champion in Crockett, Texas. Starting on banjo and guitar at just three years old, Matthew began classical violin lessons at eight. He quickly transitioned to folk music and mastered Texas-style fiddling under the influence of legends like Major Franklin and Bob Wills. By age 19, he had won most of the major fiddling titles.
Besides his accolades, Hartz is known for his deep groove and rhythmic versatility across genres. His career highlights include producing the soundtrack for the award-winning PBS documentary Idaho Rhapsody and performing on WSM’s Grand Ole Opry. Hartz now performs with various bands, teaches workshops nationwide, and hosts a podcast focused on his musical influences.